U.S. patent application number 17/839985 was filed with the patent office on 2022-09-29 for rucking system.
This patent application is currently assigned to GORUCK Holdings, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is GORUCK Holdings, LLC. Invention is credited to James Alex EMERSON, Jason Jerome MCCARTHY, Michael J. WALTHER.
Application Number | 20220304454 17/839985 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000006447095 |
Filed Date | 2022-09-29 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220304454 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
MCCARTHY; Jason Jerome ; et
al. |
September 29, 2022 |
RUCKING SYSTEM
Abstract
An embodiment of the present disclosure of a rucking system that
includes a stackable plate assembly having a first plate and a
second plate.
Inventors: |
MCCARTHY; Jason Jerome;
(Jacksonville Beach, FL) ; WALTHER; Michael J.;
(Jacksonville Beach, FL) ; EMERSON; James Alex;
(Jacksonville Beach, FL) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
GORUCK Holdings, LLC |
Jacksonville Beach |
FL |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
GORUCK Holdings, LLC
Jacksonville Beach
FL
|
Family ID: |
1000006447095 |
Appl. No.: |
17/839985 |
Filed: |
June 14, 2022 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
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17508573 |
Oct 22, 2021 |
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17839985 |
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63104193 |
Oct 22, 2020 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
A45F 3/047 20130101;
A63B 21/065 20130101 |
International
Class: |
A45F 3/04 20060101
A45F003/04; A63B 21/065 20060101 A63B021/065 |
Claims
1. A rucking system, comprising: a rucking article having a base, a
top spaced from the base, lateral sides that extend from the base
toward the top, a front panel coupled to the base, a back panel
coupled to the base, the top, and the lateral sides, the back panel
having an exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior
side, and a first pocket on the interior side, wherein the first
pocket has an internal pocket volume; a first plate having a first
length, a first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a
first thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the
first width, and a first weight; and a second plate having a second
length, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length,
a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and
the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first
weight or greater than the first weight, wherein the first length
and the second length are substantially the same and the first
width and the second width are substantially the same, such that,
when the first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to
each other to form a plate assembly, the plate assembly slidingly
fits in substantially an entirety of the internal pocket volume of
the first pocket.
2. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate
has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side,
and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the second plate
has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side,
and a second side opposite the first side, wherein when the first
plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to
form the plate assembly, the first ends of the first and second
plates are coplanar, the second ends of the first and second plates
are coplanar, the first sides of the first and second plates are
coplanar, and the second sides of the first and second plates are
coplanar.
3. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate
has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side,
and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first length
extends from the first end to the second end of the first plate,
the first width extends from the first side to the second side of
the first plate, wherein the first length is about 11.5 inches and
the first width is about 9 inches.
4. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first
weight of the first plate is 10 lbs., and the second weight of the
second plate is 20 lbs.
5. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate
has a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first side,
and a second side opposite the first side, wherein the first plate
has a first through hole that extends along the first thickness,
and a second through hole that extends along the first thickness,
wherein the first and second through holes are positioned a
distance that is closer to the first end and the second end,
respectively, than a distance to a centerline of the first plate,
wherein the centerline is equidistant between the first end and the
second end, and is parallel to the first width.
6. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the first plate
has a first through hole that extends along the first thickness,
and a second through hole that extends along the first thickness,
wherein the second plate has a first through hole that extends
along the second thickness, and a second through hole that extends
along the second thickness, wherein dimensions of the first and
second through holes of the first plate are different from
dimensions of the first and second through holes of the second
plate.
7. The nicking system according to claim 1, further comprising a
pocket assembly having at least the first pocket comprising a first
pocket panel attached to the interior side of the back panel,
wherein the first pocket panel is spaced apart from the base and
lies proximate the top, such that the first pocket panel is biased
toward the top of the back panel.
8. The nicking system according to claim 7, wherein the rucking
article further comprises: a plurality of pad members on the
exterior side that extend across a width of the back panel; and a
lumbar support member located between the plurality of pad members
and the base, wherein the lumbar support member has a thickness
that is greater than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad
members, wherein the first pocket does not overlie any portion of
the lumbar support member.
9. The nicking system according to claim 8, wherein the back panel
has a height that extends from the base to the top, and a width
that is perpendicular to the height, wherein a bottom end of the
first pocket panel is spaced from a bottom edge of the back panel a
distance that is between 20% and 30% of a total height of the back
panel.
10. The nicking system according to claim 9, wherein the pocket
assembly includes a second pocket comprising a second pocket panel
that overlies the first pocket panel.
11. The nicking system according to claim 1, wherein the back panel
has a height that extends from the base to the top, and a width
that is perpendicular to the height, wherein the nicking article
further comprises: a plurality of pad members on the exterior side
that extend across a width of the back panel; a lumbar support
member located between the plurality of pad members and the base,
wherein the lumbar support member has a thickness that is greater
than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad members; a
closure that removably couples the front panel to the top and at
least a portion of each of the lateral sides, such that the closure
is configured to permit access to an interior of the nicking
article; a pocket assembly coupled to the interior side of the back
panel, the pocket assembly having at least the first pocket, the
first pocket having a pocket width, a pocket length that is
perpendicular to the pocket width, a pocket depth that is
perpendicular to the pocket width and the pocket length, and a
closure flap, wherein the pocket length, pocket width and pocket
depth define the internal pocket volume; and an internal frame
assembly inside a compartment of the back panel, the internal frame
assembly extending from the base to the top within the compartment,
such that, the internal frame assembly provides rigid support to
the back panel along an entirety of the height of the back panel
and the width of the back panel.
12. The nicking system according to claim 11, further comprising
shoulder straps configured to secure the nicking article to a
wearer, and a sternum strap removably coupled to the shoulder
straps and configured to be selectively clasped.
13. The nicking system according to claim 12, wherein the
combination of the lumbar support member, the internal frame
assembly, and the sternum strap are configured to maintain
stability of the nicking system during active movement by the
wearer when the nicking article is worn, and the sternum strap is
clasped.
14. The nicking system according to claim 12, wherein the lumbar
support member extends across an entirety of the width of the back
panel, and between 10% and 25% of the height of the back panel.
15. The nicking system according to claim 11, wherein the plurality
of pad members define a plurality of planar contact surfaces that
lie along a first plane, and the lumbar support member defines a
contact surface that lies along a second plane, wherein a thickness
between the lumbar support member and any one of the plurality of
pad members extends perpendicularly from the first plane to the
second plane and is between 0.25 inches to 0.5 inches.
16. The nicking system according to claim 11, wherein the internal
frame assembly comprises a planar rigid member and a foam layer
adjacent to the planar rigid member.
17. A rucking system, comprising: a first plate having a first end,
a second end opposite the first end, a first length that extends
from the first end to the second end, a first width that is
perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is
perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first
weight, wherein the first length is greater than the first width
and the first thickness; and a second plate having a first end, a
second end opposite the first end, a second length that extends
from the first end of the second plate to the second end of the
second plate, a second width that is perpendicular to the second
length, a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second
length and the second width, and a second weight that is the same
as the first weight or greater than the first weight, wherein the
second length is greater than the second width and the second
thickness, wherein the first length of the first plate and the
second length of the second plate are substantially the same and
the first width of the first plate and the second width of the
second plate are substantially the same, such that, when the first
plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other, the
first and second plates slidingly fit in an internal pocket volume
of a pocket inside a nicking article.
18. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first
plate has a first side, and a second side opposite the first side,
wherein the second plate has a first side, and a second side
opposite the first side, wherein when the first plate and the
second plate are stacked adjacent to each other to form a plate
assembly, an entirety of the first ends of the first and second
plates are coplanar, an entirety of the second ends of the first
and second plates are coplanar, an entirety of the first sides of
the first and second plates are coplanar, and an entirety of the
second sides of the first and second plates are coplanar.
19. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first
plate has a first through hole and a second through hole located at
or near first and second ends of the first plate, respectively,
wherein the first and second through holes of the first plate
extend along the first thickness, wherein the second plate further
has a first through hole and a second through hole located at or
near opposed ends of the second plate, wherein the first and second
through holes of the second plate extend along the second
thickness, and dimensions of the first and second through holes of
the first plate are different from dimensions of the first and
second through holes of the second plate.
20. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first
width extends from a first side to a second side of the first
plate, wherein the first length is about 11.5 inches and the first
width is about 9 inches.
21. The nicking system according to claim 19, wherein the first and
second through holes of the first plate are positioned a distance
that is closer to the first end and the second end, respectively,
of the first plate, than a distance from the first and second
through holes to a centerline of the first plate, wherein the
centerline is equidistant between the first end and the second end,
and is parallel to the first width of the first plate.
22. The nicking system according to claim 21, wherein the first and
second through holes of the second plate are positioned a distance
that is closer to the first end and the second end, respectively,
of the second plate, than a distance from the first and second
through holes to a centerline of the second plate, wherein the
centerline is equidistant between the first end and the second end,
and is parallel to the second width of the second plate.
23. The nicking system according to claim 17, wherein the first
weight of the first plate is 10 lbs., and the second weight of the
second plate is 20 lbs.
24. The nicking system according to claim 17, further comprising a
nicking article having the pocket, wherein the pocket is inside the
nicking article and is further sized to slidingly receive the first
and second plates when stacked together.
25. The nicking system according to claim 17, further comprising a
nicking article, the nicking article having: a base; a top spaced
from the base; lateral sides that extend from the base toward the
top; a front panel coupled to the base; a back panel coupled to the
base, the top, and the lateral sides, the back panel having an
exterior side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, a
height that extends from the base to the top, and a width that is
perpendicular to the height; a plurality of pad members on the
exterior side that extend across the width of the back panel; a
lumbar support member located between the plurality of pad members
and the base, wherein the lumbar support member has a thickness
that is greater than a thickness of any one of the plurality of pad
members; a closure that removably couples the front panel to the
top and at least a portion of each of the lateral sides, such that
the closure is configured to permit access to an interior of the
nicking article; a pocket assembly coupled to the interior side of
the back panel, the pocket assembly having at least the pocket with
a pocket width, a pocket length that is perpendicular to the pocket
width, a pocket depth that is perpendicular to the pocket width and
the pocket length, and a closure flap, wherein the pocket length,
pocket width and pocket depth define the internal pocket volume; an
internal frame assembly inside a compartment of the back panel, the
internal frame assembly extending from the base to the top within
the compartment, such that, the internal frame assembly provides
rigid support to the back panel along an entirety of the height of
the back panel and the width of the back panel; and shoulder straps
configured to secure the nicking article to a wearer.
Description
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] The present application is a continuation-in-part of and
claims priority to and benefit of U.S. patent application Serial
No. 17/508,573, filed Oct. 22, 2021, which in turn claims priority
to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.
63/104,193, filed Oct. 22, 2020, the contents of which are hereby
incorporated in their entirety.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] The present disclosure relates to a rucking article.
BACKGROUND
[0003] Rucking is an exercise regimen that is used in military
training protocols to build strength and endurance. A person
carries a weighted sack or bag while completing various activities,
like running, push-ups, etc. Specially designed nicking articles
can be worn like a backpack and also include compartments for
holding weighted plates, or nicking plates.
[0004] Stability during use is important because of a wide range of
upper and lower body movements involved in traditional nicking
training protocols. The nicking article should carry weight but not
necessarily inhibit a user's balance and agility across a wide
range of body movements during use. Such a design allows a user to
customize workout routines based on the desired regimen.
[0005] Conventional exercise articles often cause discomfort due to
insufficient lumbar support, lack of padding, and abrasive fabrics
that result in friction burns, constricted movement during exercise
regimens, and injury.
SUMMARY
[0006] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a nicking
system that includes a nicking article and/or a plurality of
stackable weighted plates that can slidingly fit within a pocket of
the nicking article.
[0007] An embodiment of the present disclosure includes a nicking
system having a nicking article, a first plate, and a second plate.
The nicking article includes a base, a top spaced from the base,
lateral sides that extend from the base toward the top, a front
panel coupled to the base, and a back panel coupled to the base,
the top, and the lateral sides. The back panel includes an exterior
side, an interior side opposite the exterior side, and a first
pocket on the interior side, wherein the first pocket has an
internal pocket volume. The first plate includes a first length, a
first width that is perpendicular to the first length, a first
thickness that is perpendicular to the first length and the first
width, and a first weight. The second plate includes a second
length, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length,
a second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and
the second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first
weight or greater than the first weight. The first length and the
second length are substantially the same and the first width and
the second width are substantially the same, such that, when the
first plate and the second plate are stacked adjacent to each other
to form a plate assembly, the plate assembly slidingly fits in
substantially an entirety of the internal pocket volume of the
first pocket.
[0008] Another embodiment of the disclosure is a rucking system
having a first plate and a second plate. The first plate includes a
first end, a second end opposite the first end, a first length that
extends from the first end to the second end, a first width that is
perpendicular to the first length, a first thickness that is
perpendicular to the first length and the first width, and a first
weight. The first length is greater than the first width and the
first thickness. The second plate includes a first end, a second
end opposite the first end, a second length that extends from the
first end of the second plate to the second end of the second
plate, a second width that is perpendicular to the second length, a
second thickness that is perpendicular to the second length and the
second width, and a second weight that is the same as the first
weight or greater than the first weight. The second length is
greater than the second width and the second thickness. The first
length of the first plate and the second length of the second plate
are substantially the same and the first width of the first plate
and the second width of the second plate are substantially the
same, such that, when the first plate and the second plate are
stacked adjacent to each other, the first and second plates
slidingly fit in an internal pocket volume of a pocket inside a
nicking article.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0009] The foregoing summary, as well as the following detailed
description of illustrative embodiments of the present application,
will be better understood when read in conjunction with the
appended drawings. For the purpose of illustrating the present
application, there is shown in the drawings illustrative
embodiments of the disclosure. It should be understood, however,
that the application is not limited to the precise arrangements and
instrumentalities shown. In the drawings:
[0010] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a nicking article
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0011] FIG. 2 is a rear view of the nicking article shown in FIG.
1;
[0012] FIG. 3 is a side view of the nicking article shown in FIG.
1;
[0013] FIG. 4 is a bottom view of the nicking article shown in FIG.
1;
[0014] FIG. 5 is a top view of the nicking article shown in FIG.
1;
[0015] FIG. 6 is a plan view of a front panel of the nicking
article shown in FIG. 1;
[0016] FIG. 7 is an interior view of the front panel shown in FIG.
6;
[0017] FIG. 8 is an interior view of the back panel of the nicking
article shown in FIG. 1;
[0018] FIG. 9 is a plan view of the exterior of the back panel
shown in FIG. 8;
[0019] FIG. 10 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the back
panel shown in FIG. 8, taken along line I-I;
[0020] FIG. 11 is another side view of the nicking article shown in
FIG. 1, with shoulder straps removed to illustrate the lumbar
support members;
[0021] FIG. 12 is a top plan view of a first weighted plate
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0022] FIG. 13 is a side view of the first weighted plate shown in
FIG. 12;
[0023] FIG. 14 is a back plan view of the first weighted plate
shown in FIG. 12;
[0024] FIG. 15 is a top plan view of a second weighted plate
according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;
[0025] FIG. 16 is a side view of the second weighted plate shown in
FIG. 15;
[0026] FIG. 17 is a back plan view of the second weighted plate
shown in FIG. 15;
[0027] FIG. 18 is a side view showing the first and second weighted
plates illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 15, stacked and configured as a
plate assembly; and
[0028] FIG. 19 is an exploded view of the plate assembly shown in
FIG. 18.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF ILLUSTRATIVE EMBODIMENTS
[0029] Embodiments of the present disclosure include a rucking
system 1 that includes nicking article 2 and/or a plurality of
stackable weighted plates 120 and 220 that can slidingly fit within
a pocket of the nicking article. The stackable weighted plates may
include a first weighted plate 120, which may be a 10 lb. plate and
a second weighted plate 220, which may be a 20 lb. plate. The
weighted plates are generally referred to herein as plates or ruck
plates. By combining the first and second weighted plates 120, 220
into a plate assembly 105, and inserting the plate assembly in the
pocket of the nicking article, the user can tailor the weight
placed in the nicking article for a given exercise regimen. The
dimensions and location of through holes in the weighted plates
120, 220 allow for a precise dimension to be attained, which allow
the weighted plates to held by the pocket, while achieving a given
load in the rucking article, such as at least 30 lbs.
[0030] A rucking article may be referred to as a nicking sack,
rucker, or nick sack, and is specifically configured to hold
weighted plates, e.g., ruck plates. The nicking article is designed
to be carried, lifted, etc., by the user, during physical activity
as a training regimen. The nicking article 2 according to an
embodiment of the present disclosure includes a combination of
features that improves stability when worn and when the user
engages in an exercise regimen that involves a wide range of upper
and lower body movements. More specifically, the inclusion of
lumbar support members 42 (FIGS. 2, 3, 5), a rigid internal frame
assembly 68 (FIGS. 9 and 10), and a sternum strap 24 (FIG. 2)
combine to establish both rucking article stability and rigid
support that helps better distribute loads across the user's upper
and lower back during use. Stability and rigid support are
advantageous results of the construction of the nicking article
described herein, especially when the user is carrying weighted
plates inside the article while also engaging in strenuous
exercise.
[0031] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, the rucking article 2 includes a
base 4, a top 6 spaced from the base 4, lateral sides 8, 10, a
front panel 30 coupled to the base 4, and a back panel 50 coupled
to the base 4, the top 6, and lateral sides 8, 10. A pair of
shoulder straps 14, 16 are configured to secure the nicking article
2 to a user and the sternum strap 24 is removably coupled to the
shoulder straps 14, 16 to contribute to article stability during
use, as described above. A closure system 12 may be used to
selectively open and close the nicking article 2 to permit access
to an interior of the article 2, as will be further described
below.
[0032] As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the base 4 and top 6 are spaced
apart along a height direction A, the front panel and back panel
are spaced part along a depth direction B, and the lateral sides
8,10 extend between the front panel 30 and the back panel 50 along
the depth direction B. The lateral sides 8, 10 are spaced apart
with respect to each other along a lateral (or width) direction C.
Thus, the height direction A is substantially perpendicular to the
depth direction B and lateral direction C. The orthogonal
directions A, B, and C are used in the present disclosure only for
illustrative purposes to aid in clarifying the relative positions
of components of the nicking article 2.
[0033] As shown in FIG. 4, the base 4 of the rucking article 2
includes opposed inner and outer edges and opposed sides (not
numbered) that extend between the opposed inner and outer edges
(not numbered). The base 4 is comprised of durable woven fabrics
that may encase a cushion member, e.g., a foam, felt, batting, or
other compressible material.
[0034] Referring to FIGS. 3-5, the lateral sides 8, 10 and the top
6 may be defined by a sidewall assembly 22 that is fixed to the
back panel 50 and base 4. In the illustrated embodiment, the
sidewall assembly 22 defines a rearward edge 26 coupled to the base
4 and the back panel 50 and an outward edge 28 that includes a
first closure element 18 of the closure system 12. The closure
system 12 thus removably secures a portion of the front panel 30 to
the sidewall assembly 22. In an alternative embodiment, however,
the top 6 and lateral sides 8, 10 could also be separate components
that are coupled together. The sidewall assembly 22 may be
comprised of durable woven fabrics that may optionally encase a
cushion member.
[0035] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, the front panel 30 is coupled to
the base 4 and removably coupled to the top 6 and lateral sides 8,
10 via the closure system 12. Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, the front
panel 30 has an exterior side 32, shown in FIG. 6, an interior side
34, shown in FIG. 7, and an outer perimeter 36. The exterior side
32 includes an external zippered pocket 38 and webbing loops 40
located toward a bottom end (not numbered) of the front panel 30.
Webbing loops 40 may be used to removably couple various items to
the nicking article 2. The interior side 34 includes several
pockets (not numbered) for holding items as needed, as best shown
in FIG. 7. The front panel 30 includes a second closure element 20
of the closure system 12. As illustrated, the second closure
element 20 extends along a majority of the outer perimeter 36, for
example, along both lateral sides and top of the outer perimeter
36. The front panel is comprised of durable woven fabrics and may
include high tenacity yarns to form the woven fabrics.
[0036] FIGS. 1-4 illustrate the back panel 50. The back panel 50 is
shown coupled to the base 4, the top 6, and the lateral sides 8, 10
and removably coupled to front panel 30. In terms of construction,
as shown in FIGS. 8-11, the back panel 50 has a bottom edge 56
coupled to the base 4, a top edge 58 opposite the bottom edge 56
coupled to the top 6, a first lateral edge 60, and a second lateral
edge 62 opposite the first lateral edge 60. The back panel 50 has
an exterior side 52 that faces a user's back when the nicking
article 2 is worn by the user, and an interior side 54 opposite the
exterior side 52. The back panel 50 defines a panel height H that
extends from the bottom edge 56 to the top edge 58 and a width W
that is perpendicular to the height H. Referring to FIG. 10, which
is a schematic cross-section of the back panel 50, the back panel
50 has one or more panel layers that hold and secure various
components of the back panel 50 as further explained below.
[0037] Referring to FIGS. 8-10, the back panel 50 includes a
plurality of pad members 64, a lumbar support member 42, and an
internal frame assembly 68 encased within a compartment of the back
panel 50. An exterior panel layer 70 defines the exterior side 52
of the back panel 50. The exterior panel layer 70 and interior
panel layer 72 encase one or more cushion elements, which form and
define the plurality of pad members 64 and lumbar support member
42. The cushion elements may comprise an open cell foam, closed
cell foam or any other compressible and resilient material suitable
to provide support. In one useful example, the lumbar support
member 42 comprises a cross-linked polyolefin foam and the
plurality of pad members comprise cross-linked polyolefin foam.
Adjacent to the interior panel layer 72 is the internal frame
assembly 68 and adjacent to that is another panel layer 74, to
which a pocket assembly 94 is attached. Panel layer 74 may define a
portion of the interior side 54 of the back panel 50. A plurality
of stitch lines 76 along the exterior panel layer 70 define the
size and shape of the plurality of pad members 64 and the lumbar
support member 42. The plurality of pad members 64 are shown
located on the exterior side 52, extend across the width of back
panel 50, and biased toward the top 6 of the article 2. The lumbar
support member 42 itself is located between the plurality of pad
members 64 and the base 4 and is positioned to support a user's
lower back when the rucking article 2 is worn.
[0038] Continuing with FIGS. 8-10, it is the size, shape, and
position of the lumbar support member 42 that contributes to
overall article stability and lower back support. In the
illustrated embodiment, the lumbar support member 42 has a base
side 82, a first lateral side 84a, a second lateral side 84b
opposite the first lateral side 84a, an apex 86 spaced from base
side 82, a first top edge 88a that extends from the first lateral
side 84a to the apex 86, and a second top edge 88b that extends
from the second lateral side 84b to the apex 86. As shown, the
first top edge 88a and the second top edge 88b are angularly offset
with respect to the first lateral side 84a and the second lateral
side 84b, respectively. The lumbar support member 42 may have other
shapes and configurations as needed. For instance, the first and
second top edges 88a and 88b may be substantially perpendicular to
the lateral sides 84a and 84b. There may be multiple separate
lumbar support members, as needed.
[0039] The lumbar support member 42, or multiple lumber support
members as the case may be, has coverage across the back panel 50
that contributes to desired article stability during use. For
example, in the illustrated embodiment, the lumbar support member
42 extends across an entirety of the width W of the back panel 50.
Furthermore, the lumbar support member 42 extends between 10% and
25% of the total height H of the back panel 50.
[0040] As shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, the lumbar support member 42
projects outwardly relative to the pad members 64 sufficient to
allow the lumbar support member 42 to contact the user's lower back
while allowing the pad members 64 to contact the user's upper back.
More specifically, the lumbar support member 42 has an overall
thickness that is greater than a thickness of any one of the
plurality of pad members 64. Here, we define the thickness T as the
difference between elevation of the lumbar support member 42 and
the pad members 64. In this regard, the plurality of pad members 64
define a plurality of planar contact surfaces (not numbered) that
lie along a first plane P1, and the lumbar support member 42
defines a contact surface (not numbered) that lies along a second
plane P2. The thickness T is the distance between plane P1 and
plane P2 (along a perpendicular line that intersects both planes
P1, P2). In the embodiment shown, the thickness T is between 0.25
inches to 0.5 inches. In one example, the thickness T is 0.25
inches. In another example, the thickness T is 0.3 inches. In
another example, the thickness T is 0.375 inches, in another
example, the thickness T is 0.40 inches. In another example, the
thickness T is 0.5 inches. The thickness T may fall outside these
ranges. However, a thickness T between 0.25 and 0.50 inches is
particularly useful when combined with other stability features,
such as the internal frame assembly 68 and sternum strap 24.
[0041] Referring to FIGS. 9 and 10, the internal frame assembly 68
is encased within a compartment of the back panel 50. In the
illustrated embodiment, the internal frame assembly 68 comprises a
planar rigid member 90 and a foam layer 92 sitting adjacent the
planar rigid member 90. The planar rigid member may be a plastic
sheet or metallic sheet as needed. It may comprise a monolithic
component or could be multiple components stitched together. It may
include through holes or openings for weight reduction. The planar
rigid member 90, however, has a size and shape that generally
extends across a substantial entirety of the width W of the back
panel 50 and a substantial entirety of the height H of the back
panel 50. The foam layer 92 sits adjacent the planar rigid member
90 and is generally coextensive with the height and width of the
planar rigid member. In other words, the foam layer 92 and planar
rigid member 90 have a similar size and shape. The internal frame
assembly 68 therefore supports the integrity of the article as it
is weighed down, which allows a user to carry a heavier load more
comfortably, and also contributes to article stability during
use.
[0042] Referring to FIGS. 8 and 10, the rucking article 2 is
configured to hold weighted plates with the pocket assembly 94. The
pocket assembly 94 is coupled to the interior side 54 of the back
panel 50 and has at least a first pocket 96 and a second pocket 98.
Each of the first and second pockets 96 and 98 are sized and
selected to firmly hold a rucking or weighted plate therein. The
first pocket 96 has a first pocket panel 100 attached to the
interior side 54 of the back panel 50, which defines a pocket
length y and a pocket width z. The pocket length y is perpendicular
to the pocket width z. The first pocket has a pocket depth (not
shown) that is perpendicular to the pocket width z and the pocket
length y. Collectively, the pocket length y, pocket width z, and
pocket depth define an internal pocket volume. A closure flap 99 is
secured to the back panel 50 and is used to open or close access to
the first pocket 96. As illustrated, the first pocket panel 100 is
spaced apart from the base 4 and lies approximate the top 6, such
that the first pocket panel 100 is biased toward the top of the
back panel 50. More specifically, a bottom end 102 of the first
pocket panel 100 is spaced from the bottom edge 56 of the back
panel a distance x that is between 20% and 30% of a total height H
of the back panel 50.
[0043] The pocket assembly design works in conjunction with the
other design elements of the rucking article 2. In this regard, the
first pocket 96 does not overlie any portion of the lumbar support
member 42 along the exterior side of the back panel. In other
words, the first pocket is positioned inside the rucking article 2
so that it does not interfere with position and use of the lumbar
support member 42. In use, this can be important as the pocket
position keeps the weight elevated on the user's back and permits
the lumbar support member 42 to provide support where it is
designed to, i.e., the lower back. This, in turns, helps create
improved stability for a wearer by aiding even distribution of
loads by the internal frame assembly. The sternum strap 24, in
turn, also aids stability by helping position the weighted plate
where it is intended to be--the user's upper back off of the lumbar
area.
[0044] The second pocket 98 has a second pocket panel 104 that
overlies the first pocket panel 100. The second pocket panel 104
defines a top edge 106 that sits below the closure flap 99 with the
closure flap 99 in a closed position. The second pocket 98 may be
gusseted or pleated to accommodate one or more plates. An elastic
strap 108 extends across the top of the second pocket 98 to help
secure items therein.
[0045] The rucking article 2 includes shoulder straps 14, 16 that
extend between the top and lateral sides proximate the top and
partially overlay the back panel 50. The shoulder straps are
configured to secure the rucking article 2 to a wearer. In certain
embodiments, the shoulder straps 14, 16 are extra padded to carry
heavier loads more comfortably.
[0046] The sternum strap 24 is removably coupled to the shoulder
straps and configured to be selectively clasped as needed to
facilitate improved stability. The sternum strap includes a first
strap portion (not shown) removably coupled to shoulder strap 16, a
second strap portion (not shown) removably coupled to shoulder
strap 14, a first clasp member 110 slidably positioned along the
first strap portion, and a second clasp member 112 slidably
positioned along the second strap portion. The first and second
clasp members 110, 112 can be connected together as needed. The
sternum strap 24 can be repositioned along different loops coupled
to the shoulder strap to adjust the positioning of the sternum
strap 24 relative to the user. The combination of the lumbar
support members 42 (FIGS. 2, 3, 5), a rigid internal frame assembly
68 (FIGS. 9 and 10), and sternum strap 24 (FIG. 2) are configured
to maintain stability of the nicking article 2 during active
movement by the wearer when the rucking article is worn, and the
sternum strap is clasped.
[0047] FIGS. 12-19 illustrate exemplary weighted plates 120, 220
for insertion in the first and second pockets 96 and 98. In
accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, two or
more weighted plates 120, 220 can be stacked together and inserted
in the pockets 96 and/or 98, as shown in FIGS. 18 and 19. In the
illustrated embodiment, each weighted plate 120, 220 has a length,
width, and thickness (as further described below) that are selected
such that the weighted plates slidingly fit within the first pocket
96 or second pocket 98 without substantial movement therein. In
other words, the pockets 96, 98 and weighted plates 120, 220 have
similar dimensions. In addition, the size and location of through
holes in the weighted plates 120, 220 allow for a precise dimension
and desired weight to be attained, which allow the weighted plates
to held by the pockets, while achieving a given load in the nicking
article 2. While the weighted plates are described as being a 10
lbs. plate and a 20 lbs. plate, the weighted plates, however, can
have a variety of weights. For example, the weighted plates may be
10 lbs., 15 lbs., 20 lbs., 25 lbs., 30 lbs., 35 lbs., 40 lbs., 45
lbs. or 50 lbs., with appropriate adjustments in through hole size
and dimension to allow at least two weighted plates to be stacked
and inserted in the pockets.
[0048] Continuing with FIGS. 12-19, the stackable weighted plates
may include a first weighted plate 120 and a second weighted plate
220. The first weighted plate 120 may be a 10 lb. plate and the
second weighted plate 220 may be a 20 lb. plate. By combining the
first and second weighted plates 120, 220 into the plate assembly
105, and inserting the plate assembly 105 in the first and second
pockets 96, 98, a user can tailor the weight placed in the nicking
article for a given exercise regimen.
[0049] Continuing with FIGS. 12-14, the plate assembly 105 includes
the first weighted plate 120 and the second weighted plate 220, as
discussed above. The first weighted plate 120 may have dimensions
selected to fit within the pockets 96 or 98. For example, the first
weighted plate 120 includes a plate body 121 having first and
second opposed ends 122 and 124, first and second opposed sides 126
and 128, first and second opposed outer surfaces 130 and 132, and
at least two through holes 134 and 136. The first weighted plate
120 has a length L1 that extends from the first end 122 to the
second end 124, a width W1 that extends from the first side 126 to
the second side 128, and a thickness T1 that extends from the first
surface 130 to the second surface 132. The length L1, width W1, and
thickness T1 are perpendicular to each other. For a 10 lb. plate,
the length L1 may be 11.50 inches, the width W1 may be 9 inches,
and thickness T1 may be 0.52 inches.
[0050] Referring again to FIGS. 12-14, the first weighted plate 120
may have at least two through holes 134, 136. More specifically,
first through hole 134 extends from the first surface 130 to the
second surface 132 along the thickness T1. The plate body 121
defines the length and width dimensions of the through hole. In the
illustrated embodiment, the length A of through hole 134 extends
from a first inner surface 138 to a second inner surface 140 along
a direction that is parallel to the length L1 of the plate body
121. The width B of through hole 134 also extends from a third
inner surface 142 to a fourth inner surface 144 along a direction
that is parallel to the width W1 of the plate body 121. The second
through hole 136 has substantially the same dimensions as the first
through hole 134. For a 10 lb. plate, the length A of the through
holes 134 and 136 may be about 2 inches, while the width B may be
about 6.625 inches. Furthermore, the center points (not shown) of
the first through hole 134 and the second through hole 136 are
located a distance that is closer to the first end 122 and the
second end 124, respectively, than a distance the through holes 134
and 136 are located relative to a centerline (not shown) of the
first weighted plate 120 (where the centerline is equidistant the
first end 122 and the second end 124). In this way, the through
holes 134, 136 create a type of handle on each weighted plate that
allows a user to easily grab and insert the weighted plate into the
pockets 96 or 98. In one example, the first through hole 134 and
second through hole 136 are spaced about 2 inches from the first
end 122 and second end 124, respectively. In addition, the first
through hole 134 and second through hole 136 are 1.188 inches from
the first side 126 and second side 128, respectively.
[0051] As shown in FIGS. 15-17, the second weighted plate 220 may
have dimensions selected to fit within the pockets 96 or 98. For
example, the second weighted plate 220 includes a plate body 221
having first and second opposed ends 222 and 224, first and second
opposed sides 226 and 228, first and second opposed outer surfaces
230 and 232, and at least two through holes 234 and 236. The second
weighted plate 220 has a length L2 that extends from the first end
222 to the second end 224, a width W2 that extends from the first
side 226 to the second side 228, and a thickness T2 that extends
from the first surface 230 to the second surface 232. The length
L2, width W2, and thickness T2 are perpendicular to each other. For
a 20 lb. plate, the length L2 may be 11.5 inches, the width W2 may
be 9 inches, and thickness T2 may be 0.84 inches. In accordance
with an embodiment of the present disclosure, the length and width
of the first weighted plate 120 and the second weighted plate 220
are substantially the same. In other words, the length L1 of the
first weighted plate 120 and the length L2 of the second weighted
plate 220 are substantially the same. Similarly, the width W1 of
the first weighted plate 120 and the width W2 of the second
weighted plate 220 are substantially the same. Thus, when stacked
together to create the plate assembly 105, the first and second
ends and the first and second sides of each weighted plate are
substantially coplanar. Additionally, when the first weighted plate
120 and the second weighted plate 220 are stacked adjacent to each
other, the first and second weighted plates slidingly fit in the
internal pocket volume of the first pocket of the nicking
article.
[0052] Continuing with FIGS. 15-17, the second weighted plate 220
may have at least two through holes 234, 236. More specifically,
first through hole 234 extends from the first surface 230 to the
second surface 232 along the thickness T2. The plate body 221
defines the length and width dimensions of the through hole. In the
illustrated embodiment, the length D of through hole 234 extends
from a first inner surface 238 to a second inner surface 240 along
a direction that is parallel to the length L2 of the plate body
221. The width E of through hole 234 also extends from a third
inner surface 242 to a fourth inner surface 244 along a direction
that is parallel to the width W2 of the plate body 221. The second
through hole 236 of the second weighted plate 220 has substantially
the same dimensions as the first through hole 234. For a 20 lb.
plate, the length D of the through holes 234 and 236 may be about
1.25 inches, while the width E may be about 4.125 inches.
Furthermore, the center points (not shown) of the first through
hole 234 and the second through hole 236 are located a distance
that is closer to the first end 222 and the second end 224,
respectively, than a distance the through holes 234 and 236 are
located relative to a centerline (not shown) of the second weighted
plate 220 (where the centerline is equidistant the first end 222
and the second end 224). In this way, the through holes 234, 236
create a type of handle on each weighted plate that allows a user
to easily grab and insert the weighted plate into the pockets 96 or
98. In one example, for the 20 lb. weighted plate 220, the first
through hole 234 and second through hole 236 are spaced about 1
inches from the first end 222 and second end 224, respectively. In
addition, the first through hole 234 and second through hole 236
are 2.43 inches from the first side 226 and second side 228,
respectively. The dimensions of the first and second through holes
of the first weighted plate 120 are different from dimensions of
the first and second through holes of the second weighted plate
220.
[0053] Referring now to FIGS. 1-6, the closure system 12 may be
used to selectively open and close the nicking article 2 to permit
access to an interior of the article 2. The closure system 12
includes a first closure element 18 fixed to an entirety of the
outward edge 28 of the sidewall assembly 22. A second closure
element 20 is fixed to the top and side edges of the front panel
30. The front panel 30 is coupled, or fixed, to the base 4. The
first and second closure elements 18 and 20 are thus configured to
selectively engage with each other so that a portion of the front
panel 30 is removably coupled to the top 6 and at least a portion
of each of the lateral sides 8, 10 of the rucking article 2. In
this configuration, the rucking article 2 can open flat so that it
is easier to access the internal pockets and otherwise organize its
contents. In alternative embodiments, the closure system 12, e.g.,
the first and second closure elements 18, 20, may extend along only
a portion of the lateral sides and/or top of the nicking article 2.
For example, the closure system 12 may extend along only the top of
the rucking article 2. In various embodiments of the nicking
article 2, the closure system 12, e.g., a zipper, can be made with
silent, glove friendly zipper pulls constructed from parachute
cord, which, in one example is a 550 denier cord. Other types of
closures, pulls, and cord sizes may be used.
[0054] Referring to FIGS. 4 and 5, the base 4 also includes a
durable handle 27 that can be used to grab the article as described
further below and the top 6 include a durable handle 29. Though not
shown, the lateral sides can further comprise side durable handles.
The base 4 may include various reinforced drainage ports allowing
fluid to pass through as needed. The nicking article 2 may also
include a hip belt assembly coupled thereto proximate the base 4.
The top 6 also includes a port 123 (FIG. 5) with a hook and loop
closure overlying the port. The port 123 is sized for a tube of a
hydration bladder positionable inside the nicking article 2. High
visibility straps may be used as a reflective member and may be
placed along the shoulder straps and on the front panel for
safety.
[0055] Each of the various components, such as the back panel,
front panel, top, base, and sides are comprised of durable woven
fabrics. The article is comprised of tear and wear resistant
fabrics comprised of 1000 denier CORDURA.RTM. yarns. Any number of
weave constructions and deniers may be used, however. However, a
less abrasive fabric may be used on the back panel and underside of
the shoulder straps to reduce friction and the like. The back panel
and shoulder straps, for example, may be comprised of woven fabrics
comprising 210 denier, High Tenacity CORDURA.RTM. yarns.
[0056] The nicking article 2, in general, has a size and shape to
fit comfortably on the user's upper torso. More specifically, the
nicking article 2 has an overall width W that extends from lateral
side 8 to lateral side 10, an overall height H that extends from
the base 4 to the top 6 and that is perpendicular to the overall
width W, and an overall depth D that extends from an exterior side
52 of the back panel 50 to the exterior side 32 of the front panel
30. The overall depth D is substantially perpendicular to the
overall height H and the overall width W. In one exemplary
embodiment, the rucking article 2 has an overall width W between
10.0 inches and 13.0 inches, an overall height H between 15.0
inches and 22.0 inches, and an overall depth D between 4.0 inches
and 7.25 inches. Furthermore, the nicking article 2 is designed to
have an overall weight that can vary between about 2.30 lbs. and
about 3.30 lbs. In some cases, the overall weight of the nicking
article may vary outside of these specific ranges.
[0057] While the disclosure is described herein, using a limited
number of embodiments, these specific embodiments are not intended
to limit the scope of the disclosure as otherwise described and
claimed herein. The precise arrangement of various elements and
order of the steps of articles and methods described herein are not
to be considered limiting. For instance, although the steps of the
methods are described with reference to sequential series of
reference signs and progression of the blocks in the figures, the
method can be implemented in an order as desired.
* * * * *